In preparing a report for the oncoming nurse, which finding is most crucial to include for a client with bacterial meningitis?

In a report for the oncoming nurse regarding a client with bacterial meningitis, including the finding of increasing pulse pressure is crucial for several reasons.

When considering bacterial meningitis, vital signs are essential indicators of a patient's status. An increasing pulse pressure can indicate a wide arterial pressure difference, which may be a sign of increased intracranial pressure (ICP). This is particularly relevant in the context of meningitis, as the inflammation of the meninges can lead to complications such as cerebral edema and elevated ICP. Monitoring pulse pressure helps assess cardiovascular stability and can guide the urgency of medical interventions.

Thus, including this detail in the report ensures that the oncoming nurse is aware of a potentially serious condition that requires immediate attention, thereby facilitating timely and appropriate interventions to prevent further deterioration of the patient's condition.